Operations Manager

Manpower; Sutton-in-Ashfield; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing firm seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead their team at a facility in Sutton-in-Ashfield. You will drive performance, ensure high standards of production, and optimize operational efficiency. The role requires a degree and significant management experience in industrial settings. A solid background in Lean Manufacturing and process optimization is essential. Competitive salary and benefits offered.

Benefits

Excellent salary and benefits package

Opportunity for professional growth

Culture valuing teamwork and learning

Qualifications

• At least 5 years in a management role within an industrial or manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience in production management, people leadership, and process optimisation.
• Strong engineering knowledge and technical aptitude.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage daily production operations, ensuring output, quality, and efficiency targets.
• Oversee maintenance and engineering functions to ensure equipment reliability.
• Implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to enhance productivity.

Skills

Production management

People leadership

Process optimisation

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Education

Degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Modern data/production systems

Job description

Are you an experienced operations leader with a passion for driving performance, people development, and continuous improvement?

We're seeking an Operations Manager to join our clients leadership team at their manufacturing facility in Sutton-in-Ashfield . This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of a high‑performing, safety‑focused, and innovation‑driven plant.

Whether your background is in FMCG, food production, packaging, or automotive manufacturing, this is your chance to play a key role in a business that prides itself on quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

About the Role

As part of the Plant Leadership Team, you'll lead a team of Production Managers, Technical Leaders, and Engineers to deliver outstanding manufacturing performance. You'll ensure safe, efficient, and cost‑effective operations while maintaining the highest standards of product quality and operational excellence.

You'll take ownership of production, maintenance, and continuous improvement functions, driving output, optimising resources, and embedding a culture of collaboration and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage daily production operations, ensuring output, quality, and efficiency targets are consistently achieved.
• Oversee maintenance and engineering functions, ensuring equipment reliability and minimising downtime.
• Implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
• Manage operational budgets and drive cost control and improvement initiatives.
• Lead projects related to technology upgrades, process optimisation, and capital investment.
• Support and develop Production Managers, Team Leaders, and operational teams through coaching and mentoring.
• Foster a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all EHS standards and regulations.
• Act as Deputy Plant Manager in their absence.

About You

• Degree qualified or equivalent experience, with at least 5 years in a management role within an industrial or manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience in production management, people leadership, and process optimisation.
• Strong engineering knowledge and technical aptitude.
• Confident with Microsoft Office and modern data / production systems.
• Excellent communicator and motivator with a hands‑on, collaborative approach.
• Sound understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement frameworks.
• Knowledge of EHS, ISO standards, and quality management systems (e.g. BRC, HACCP, WCP, ISO 14001).

Key Attributes

• A proactive, "can‑do" leader who inspires others.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to turn ideas into action.
• Committed to delivering excellence in safety, quality, and efficiency.

What's on Offer

• A pivotal leadership role within a respected manufacturing organisation.
• Excellent salary and benefits package.
• The opportunity to lead innovation, improvement, and transformation projects.
• A culture that values teamwork, professional growth, and continuous learning.